 The National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research – Mohali (NIPER- M) management has put on hold its decision of discontinuing its regular MBA programme as alumni and industry leaders decry potential loss of talent pool.
The regular MBA programme at NIPER has long been hailed as a cornerstone of the institute's success, with graduates consistently securing top-tier positions in leading pharmaceutical companies both in India and abroad. However, recent discussions surrounding the restructuring of academic offerings have cast a dark cloud over the future of this esteemed programme.
As the debate over NIPER's restructuring continues to unfold, there is a pressing need for transparency, accountability, and a thorough evaluation of the implications of such decisions on the future of pharmaceutical education and industry growth in India.
In a move that has stirred controversy and dismay among students and stakeholders alike, the Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) under the Union ministry of chemicals and fertilizers is planning to terminate the standalone pharma MBA programme (2 years) at NIPER and replace it with an M Tech-MBA twin degree (2+1 Years) at NIPER-M. This unilateral decision has bypassed the official decision-making hierarchy, leaving many future aspirants of the pure pharma MBA programme at NIPER disheartened and disillusioned.
"Closing down the MBA pharma course at NIPER is a decision that will reverberate throughout the pharmaceutical industry. As a proud NIPER MBA pharma alumni with 20 years in the industry, I'm deeply disappointed by the government's decision," lamented Vikas Nim, a seasoned professional who has dedicated two decades to the field. He further added, "This programme has been pivotal in shaping management talent in the pharma sector. Closing it will not only impact NIPER's legacy but also hinder students' career prospects."
As stakeholders continue to voice their concerns and advocate for the preservation of vital programmes at NIPER, the resolution of these issues remains paramount to ensuring the continued growth and success of the pharmaceutical industry in India.
One such area of contention is the discontinuation of courses like Biopharmaceuticals, a programme that was initiated just last year. Industry experts project that the market for biopharmaceuticals is poised to exceed a staggering US$ 600 billion within the next three to four years. This burgeoning sector represents a significant opportunity for innovation and growth, making the discontinuation of related courses at NIPER particularly concerning.
Furthermore, the fate of programmes focused on Traditional Medicine and Natural Products is also under scrutiny. With companies like Emami and Patanjali experiencing rapid growth and expanding their presence in the market, there is a growing recognition of the importance of education and research in this field. Discontinuing such programmes could impede the development of expertise in traditional medicine, hindering India's ability to capitalize on the potential of these industries.
Additionally, there are apprehensions regarding the potential introduction of a new test, the National Common Admission Test (NCAT), which could affect the preference for pursuing a Bachelor of Pharmacy (B. Pharm) degree. B. Pharm has traditionally been a popular choice among students aspiring to enter the pharmaceutical industry. However, the introduction of NCAT may disrupt the established pathway for admission into pharmaceutical programmes, leading to uncertainty and decreased interest in pursuing B. Pharm as a career option.
The repercussions of this decision are far-reaching, with concerns raised about the potential impact on placements, alumni relations, and the institute's prestigious reputation. The pharm MBA programme at NIPER has been a beacon of excellence, boasting a 100% placement record since its inception, with impressive salary packages being offered to graduates. Recent placement statistics for the years 2020-2022 and 2021-2023 reveal a commendable track record, with recruiters offering lucrative packages and forging strong ties with the department.
Furthermore, the pharm MBA programme has played a pivotal role in fostering relationships with top firms in the pharmaceutical industry, including Accenture, Bain and Company, Eli Lilly, GSK, Novartis, EY, and many others. Through various internships, placements, and industry connect programmes, the department has established itself as a trusted partner for leading companies in the sector. The financial contribution of the programme, generating significant revenue through admission fees, underscores its importance to the institute's financial sustainability.
The decision to remove the standalone Pharm MBA programme threatens to tarnish the brand image of NIPER and shatter the dreams of aspiring students who have set their sights on pursuing a career in pharmaceutical management. The sudden restructuring has sparked outrage and calls for reconsideration from students, alumni, and industry stakeholders who recognize the invaluable contribution of the pharm MBA programme to the institute and the wider pharmaceutical landscape.
Alumni, many of whom occupy influential roles in the pharmaceutical sector, have voiced their dismay at the prospect of losing the programme that played a pivotal role in shaping their careers. With over 800 alumni globally, NIPER has been a breeding ground for top talent, contributing significantly to the growth and success of the pharmaceutical industry.
Moreover, industry leaders fear that the closure of the regular MBA programme could lead to a talent drain, depriving companies of skilled professionals and stunting the growth of the pharmaceutical sector. The programme's reputation for producing graduates equipped with both pharmaceutical expertise and business acumen has made it a sought-after source of talent for recruiters.
|